Two Samoa talks critical

By Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu 30 November 2017, 12:00AM

The two Samoa talks is to iron out issues and provide solutions that will better serve the people of Samoa and American Samoa. 

This was the message from Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi yesterday during the official opening of the meeting.

Held at the Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi building, Tuilaepa said these meetings started back in 1983. 

Tuilaepa said issues such as health, education, transportation, immigration, agriculture are pertinent to people’s daily lives. 

“These meetings which were started by our forefathers have paved the way for the countries to work together,” he said. 

He pointed out that it’s somewhat difficult to sort outstanding issues because American Samoa is a U.S. territory and they have to gain approval from the Federal Government on certain issues.

“However in this day and age, this should not discourage the continued working relationship between the two countries because we are in close proximity,” Tuilaepa said. 

“Countries that are close to one another should be working together.

“No matter the issue at hand, it is always beneficial for the two countries to consult and dialogue and work together. 

“It is so much better to put resources together by working together, than trying to paddle your own canoe.”

American Samoa Governor Lolo Matalasi Moliga reminded the gathering that the two Samoa’s are one. 

“The purpose of these meetings is to afford better service for our people,” he said.

“In my five years in office looking in, Samoa has its own ways of governance. 

“God will always provide a leader fit for such a specific time. 

“God doesn’t appoint weak leaders to counter big problems. 

“God will provide leaders who are strong, adamant and are not afraid to make right decisions and all to better serve our people. 

“You are leaders appointed by God to find solutions for a smooth and better life,” said Lolo. 

“Samoa is one, one mother, one father, we are brothers and sisters.

“Our governments will never succeed with our plans if we don’t work together, we need to dialogue and help one another.” 

Lolo reminded the audience that the Samoa Government is an independent state, unlike American Samoa they are under the leadership of another Government. 

By Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu 30 November 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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